WEBVTT 00:00:01.760 --> 00:00:03.400 The broadcast is now starting. 00:00:03.400 --> 00:00:05.793 All attendees are in listen-only mode. 00:00:07.310 --> 00:00:08.180 Good morning. 00:00:08.180 --> 00:00:10.430 This board meeting of the Texas Water Development Board 00:00:10.430 --> 00:00:11.520 is called to order. 00:00:11.520 --> 00:00:14.520 The time is 9:31 AM. 00:00:14.520 --> 00:00:16.910 For the record, I am Brooke Paup, 00:00:16.910 --> 00:00:19.270 and with me today is our engineering superwoman, 00:00:19.270 --> 00:00:21.355 Kathleen Jackson. 00:00:21.355 --> 00:00:23.623 Mr. Harden, the first item, please. 00:00:24.610 --> 00:00:26.620 Chairwoman Paup, the first item on the agenda 00:00:26.620 --> 00:00:30.220 is consider authorizing the Executive Administrator, 00:00:30.220 --> 00:00:32.360 chief financial officer, general counsel, 00:00:32.360 --> 00:00:35.330 and development fund manager to take all necessary actions 00:00:35.330 --> 00:00:39.458 on the issue, of the state of Texas water financial 00:00:39.458 --> 00:00:43.418 assistance and refunding balance in one or more series 00:00:43.418 --> 00:00:48.418 and approving, financial advisor disclosure counsel, 00:00:48.620 --> 00:00:52.540 senior managing underwriter and co-managing underwriters 00:00:52.540 --> 00:00:54.903 through the negotiation of the bond. 00:00:54.903 --> 00:00:57.820 (speaking faintly) 00:00:58.675 --> 00:01:01.610 Good morning, Chairwoman Paup and Director Jackson, 00:01:01.610 --> 00:01:05.060 I'm Georgia Sanchez of the Executive Administrator staff. 00:01:05.060 --> 00:01:07.785 This item seeks to initiate the process, 00:01:07.785 --> 00:01:10.080 regional obligation bonds deal, 00:01:10.080 --> 00:01:13.270 specifically for the purpose of providing 00:01:13.270 --> 00:01:17.000 new financial assistance as well as refunding 00:01:17.000 --> 00:01:20.490 of proceedings with currently callable debt. 00:01:20.490 --> 00:01:22.880 Hilltop will serve as financial advisor 00:01:22.880 --> 00:01:26.405 and we propose Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe as bond counsel 00:01:26.405 --> 00:01:29.530 and Bracewell as disclosure counsel. 00:01:29.530 --> 00:01:30.780 For the underwriting team, 00:01:30.780 --> 00:01:33.030 Raymond James and Associates, Inc. 00:01:33.030 --> 00:01:35.940 is proposed to serve as senior managing underwriter 00:01:35.940 --> 00:01:39.800 for the transaction and recommended co-managing underwriters 00:01:39.800 --> 00:01:44.800 include Robert Baird, FHN financial Capital Markets, 00:01:45.400 --> 00:01:47.420 Piper Sandler and Company, 00:01:47.420 --> 00:01:49.887 and Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated. 00:01:49.887 --> 00:01:53.800 If approved, we will finalize our timelines, 00:01:53.800 --> 00:01:55.721 engage the service providers. 00:01:55.721 --> 00:01:58.440 We'll undertake the initial set issuance process 00:01:58.440 --> 00:02:00.570 to prepare the bonds for sale. 00:02:00.570 --> 00:02:03.479 The Executive Administrator would return to the board 00:02:03.479 --> 00:02:05.710 for a formal approval of the bond sale, 00:02:05.710 --> 00:02:08.500 and that will include the not to exceed advising 00:02:08.500 --> 00:02:10.780 and associated documents for any series 00:02:10.780 --> 00:02:13.163 to be issued under this authorization. 00:02:17.410 --> 00:02:18.243 Thanks Georgia. 00:02:18.243 --> 00:02:20.890 Any questions at the moment, Ms. Jackson? 00:02:20.890 --> 00:02:22.730 Just always good to say the opportunity 00:02:22.730 --> 00:02:26.550 to get savings through the refunding as well 00:02:26.550 --> 00:02:28.690 as be able to fund new capacity. 00:02:28.690 --> 00:02:30.890 So build it with today's dollars, 00:02:30.890 --> 00:02:32.550 take advantage of low interest rates, 00:02:32.550 --> 00:02:34.810 and get those projects moving forward. 00:02:34.810 --> 00:02:36.360 So thanks for the work on that. 00:02:37.340 --> 00:02:38.173 Well said. 00:02:38.173 --> 00:02:39.680 Georgia, you're the best in the business, 00:02:39.680 --> 00:02:43.022 and I know a lot of thought goes in to this process. 00:02:43.022 --> 00:02:46.691 Thank you for helping us stretch every dollar. 00:02:46.691 --> 00:02:50.360 You know, we all recognize that this is taxpayer money 00:02:50.360 --> 00:02:52.620 and every dollar counts. 00:02:52.620 --> 00:02:54.950 Really appreciate your work on this. 00:02:54.950 --> 00:02:55.850 Is there a motion? 00:02:56.800 --> 00:02:59.180 I move to authorize the Executive Administrator, 00:02:59.180 --> 00:03:01.870 chief financial officer, general counsel, 00:03:01.870 --> 00:03:05.480 and development fund manager to take all necessary actions 00:03:05.480 --> 00:03:07.680 for the issuance, sale, and delivery 00:03:07.680 --> 00:03:10.210 of state of Texas water financial assistance 00:03:10.210 --> 00:03:13.530 and refunding bonds in one or more series, 00:03:13.530 --> 00:03:16.660 and approving the selection of financial adviser, 00:03:16.660 --> 00:03:19.280 bond counsel, disclosure counsel, 00:03:19.280 --> 00:03:21.070 senior managing underwriter, 00:03:21.070 --> 00:03:24.030 and co-managing underwriters for the negotiation 00:03:24.030 --> 00:03:27.093 of the bonds as recommended by our Executive Administrator. 00:03:28.270 --> 00:03:30.210 All those in favor, say aye. 00:03:30.210 --> 00:03:31.590 Aye. 00:03:31.590 --> 00:03:33.010 The motion passes. 00:03:33.010 --> 00:03:34.720 Next item please, Mr. Harden. 00:03:34.720 --> 00:03:37.680 Chairwoman Paup, the next item on the agenda 00:03:37.680 --> 00:03:40.670 is considering approving selected applications 00:03:40.670 --> 00:03:42.950 and authorizing the Executive Administrator 00:03:42.950 --> 00:03:46.160 to negotiate and execute contracts for grant funds 00:03:46.160 --> 00:03:48.860 from the 2020 flood infrastructure fund cycle 00:03:48.860 --> 00:03:53.860 in an amount not to exceed $6,167,500 00:03:54.154 --> 00:03:56.660 for watershed flood protection planning projects, 00:03:56.660 --> 00:04:01.610 and authorizing the transfer of $6,167,500 00:04:01.610 --> 00:04:03.878 from the flood infrastructure funds 00:04:03.878 --> 00:04:06.090 to the research and planning fund as authorized 00:04:06.090 --> 00:04:08.673 by Texas water code, section 15.53488. 00:04:11.590 --> 00:04:13.117 James BRAH-NUH-KOW-SKEE is here to present 00:04:13.117 --> 00:04:14.930 to the board on this item, 00:04:14.930 --> 00:04:17.400 and we also have visitor registration cards 00:04:17.400 --> 00:04:19.170 from the Honorable Barbara Canales, 00:04:19.170 --> 00:04:21.210 county judge of Nueces County, 00:04:21.210 --> 00:04:24.915 and Susan Roth, president of Susan Roth Consulting, 00:04:24.915 --> 00:04:29.782 and both of them have indicated a position for this item 00:04:29.782 --> 00:04:33.223 and stated that they do wish to address the board today. 00:04:34.790 --> 00:04:36.170 Great, let's let James present, 00:04:36.170 --> 00:04:38.070 and then we'll hear from our visitors. 00:04:39.980 --> 00:04:40.813 Thank you. 00:04:40.813 --> 00:04:43.698 Good morning, Chairman Paup and Director Jackson. 00:04:43.698 --> 00:04:44.840 For the record, I am James BRAH-NUH-KOW-SKEE 00:04:44.840 --> 00:04:46.890 on behalf of the Executive Administrator. 00:04:47.950 --> 00:04:49.010 This item before you today 00:04:49.010 --> 00:04:52.020 is to consider approving five flood infrastructure fund 00:04:52.020 --> 00:04:55.200 category one applications and consider authorizing 00:04:55.200 --> 00:04:56.410 the Executive Administrator 00:04:56.410 --> 00:04:58.830 to negotiate and execute contracts 00:04:58.830 --> 00:05:02.210 for these watershed flood protection planning projects. 00:05:02.210 --> 00:05:05.410 These studies represent those eligible under category one, 00:05:05.410 --> 00:05:07.510 flood protection planning for watersheds 00:05:07.510 --> 00:05:10.340 of the 2020 flood intended use plan. 00:05:10.340 --> 00:05:12.790 This category of funding was designed to support studies 00:05:12.790 --> 00:05:14.960 that conduct planning of entire watersheds, 00:05:14.960 --> 00:05:18.890 no smaller than hydrologic unit code 10 digits 00:05:18.890 --> 00:05:20.930 to better inform the development of strategies 00:05:20.930 --> 00:05:23.420 using structural and non-structural measures before 00:05:23.420 --> 00:05:26.770 a flood event such as evaluating flooding locations 00:05:26.770 --> 00:05:29.530 and impacts, identifying and planning solutions 00:05:29.530 --> 00:05:32.300 to flooding problems, and estimating the benefits 00:05:32.300 --> 00:05:34.400 and costs of these solutions. 00:05:34.400 --> 00:05:36.530 Category one studies are potentially eligible 00:05:36.530 --> 00:05:40.110 to receive a maximum of 100% grant funds based 00:05:40.110 --> 00:05:43.550 on criteria outlined in the flood intended use plan. 00:05:43.550 --> 00:05:45.700 Recipients of financial assistance may either 00:05:45.700 --> 00:05:49.480 use their own funds or borrow flood infrastructure funds 00:05:49.480 --> 00:05:51.710 at 0% interest for any portion 00:05:51.710 --> 00:05:53.260 of the remaining project costs. 00:05:54.810 --> 00:05:56.570 The five applications before you today 00:05:56.570 --> 00:06:00.714 are the City of Eastland Leon River watershed study, 00:06:00.714 --> 00:06:04.375 the City of Gatesville's drainage study and master plan , 00:06:04.375 --> 00:06:07.930 the North Central Texas Council of Governments 00:06:07.930 --> 00:06:11.460 integrated transportation and stormwater management plan, 00:06:11.460 --> 00:06:15.400 the Nueces County regional drainage master plan study, 00:06:15.400 --> 00:06:18.083 and the city of Raymondville's watershed study. 00:06:19.530 --> 00:06:21.210 These applicants have submitted complete 00:06:21.210 --> 00:06:23.570 financial assistance applications and are eligible 00:06:23.570 --> 00:06:25.080 to receive grant funding through 00:06:25.080 --> 00:06:27.280 the flood infrastructure fund for a portion 00:06:27.280 --> 00:06:29.050 of their total project cost. 00:06:29.050 --> 00:06:31.460 Table one in the board memo provides a sumMary 00:06:31.460 --> 00:06:34.201 of funding sources for these five studies. 00:06:34.201 --> 00:06:36.350 The Executive Administrator recommends approval 00:06:36.350 --> 00:06:38.990 of these applications and requests authorization 00:06:38.990 --> 00:06:42.180 to negotiate and execute contracts for grant funding 00:06:42.180 --> 00:06:44.830 from the flood infrastructure fund and transfer 00:06:44.830 --> 00:06:46.760 of these funds from the flood infrastructure fund 00:06:46.760 --> 00:06:48.760 to the research and planning fund. 00:06:48.760 --> 00:06:50.420 We look forward to working with entities during 00:06:50.420 --> 00:06:53.000 the next phase of the flood infrastructure fund 00:06:53.000 --> 00:06:54.760 category one projects. 00:06:54.760 --> 00:06:56.720 This concludes my presentation and I'm happy 00:06:56.720 --> 00:06:57.820 to take any questions. 00:06:59.790 --> 00:07:01.310 Well, thanks, James. 00:07:01.310 --> 00:07:03.750 I'm not sure if Judge Canales is here yet, 00:07:03.750 --> 00:07:06.180 but I do know Susan Roth is here, 00:07:06.180 --> 00:07:08.053 so let's go ahead and hear from her. 00:07:16.120 --> 00:07:17.920 Susan, I've just unmuted, 00:07:17.920 --> 00:07:20.373 if you'd just unmute your mic, you can speak then. 00:07:53.915 --> 00:07:58.915 While we wait for Susan to, for IT to work, 00:07:59.820 --> 00:08:04.040 it's Thursday, let's go ahead and hear from Ms. Jackson 00:08:04.040 --> 00:08:05.943 if she has any questions or comments. 00:08:06.930 --> 00:08:08.970 Well, I had a couple of comments 00:08:08.970 --> 00:08:11.550 on these category one projects. 00:08:11.550 --> 00:08:14.280 And you know, we talk about public input 00:08:14.280 --> 00:08:16.130 and how important that is through the process, 00:08:16.130 --> 00:08:18.520 and I think, you know, there's a project in here 00:08:18.520 --> 00:08:21.310 that is a perfect example of that. 00:08:21.310 --> 00:08:24.260 Initially kind of moving forward with category one, 00:08:24.260 --> 00:08:26.300 there was the comment from the public 00:08:26.300 --> 00:08:29.511 that we include Council of Governments 00:08:29.511 --> 00:08:33.714 in that category as being able to kind of receive 00:08:33.714 --> 00:08:36.990 and work through funding of projects, 00:08:36.990 --> 00:08:38.550 management of projects. 00:08:38.550 --> 00:08:41.045 And that's very much, I think, the case here, 00:08:41.045 --> 00:08:45.370 that the North Central Texas Council of Governments, 00:08:45.370 --> 00:08:47.370 and they maybe have even been the one 00:08:47.370 --> 00:08:49.170 that actually submitted the comment, 00:08:50.230 --> 00:08:52.860 stepped to the plate, took on the project. 00:08:52.860 --> 00:08:56.420 And it's kind of a unique project in and of itself 00:08:56.420 --> 00:08:59.158 in terms of what it provides because it's integrated 00:08:59.158 --> 00:09:02.290 between transportation and storm water management, 00:09:02.290 --> 00:09:05.010 which again, as we did the flood assessment, 00:09:05.010 --> 00:09:07.130 we heard from communities across the state that 00:09:07.130 --> 00:09:09.630 that was something that really needed to be kind 00:09:09.630 --> 00:09:13.960 of a focus moving forward and a part of the planning effort. 00:09:13.960 --> 00:09:16.677 And so I think their plan is to do a small area first 00:09:16.677 --> 00:09:19.970 and kind of use that as a model kind of moving forward. 00:09:19.970 --> 00:09:22.170 They also were kind of unique in being able to use 00:09:22.170 --> 00:09:24.685 this opportunity for their funding. 00:09:24.685 --> 00:09:28.862 And so, because they had the opportunity to participate 00:09:28.862 --> 00:09:31.970 in the fifth, they were able to actually, 00:09:31.970 --> 00:09:34.700 and the staff really worked hard, as I understand it, 00:09:34.700 --> 00:09:37.210 James, I appreciate everything y'all did in terms 00:09:37.210 --> 00:09:40.286 of being able to use that block grant funding 00:09:40.286 --> 00:09:42.133 in conjunction with the fifth funding 00:09:42.133 --> 00:09:44.260 to be able to move this project forward. 00:09:44.260 --> 00:09:47.885 So I mean, a great example of public input, 00:09:47.885 --> 00:09:50.988 a very unique and innovative approach to flooding 00:09:50.988 --> 00:09:53.470 and something that really needed to be considered 00:09:53.470 --> 00:09:56.040 that I think is going to provide benefits not just for them, 00:09:56.040 --> 00:09:58.770 but also to others across the state, 00:09:58.770 --> 00:10:03.570 and then also a very unique funding mechanism 00:10:03.570 --> 00:10:05.850 that was worked through by the staff 00:10:05.850 --> 00:10:08.544 to enable them to kind of move forward with the project. 00:10:08.544 --> 00:10:13.544 So great work on that particular part. 00:10:13.710 --> 00:10:16.460 And then the other was of course Nueces County, 00:10:16.460 --> 00:10:21.180 and I'm sure the judge and Susan Roth will speak to this, 00:10:21.180 --> 00:10:25.120 but you know, basically a collaborative effort. 00:10:25.120 --> 00:10:26.750 I mean, what was totally intended, 00:10:26.750 --> 00:10:30.213 I think, moving forward with the fifth 00:10:30.213 --> 00:10:32.976 and the structure that was put in place, 00:10:32.976 --> 00:10:37.100 particularly with category one, that it be a coordinated, 00:10:37.100 --> 00:10:40.705 collaborative effort, and certainly something 00:10:40.705 --> 00:10:43.910 that Nueces County did in kind of moving forward 00:10:43.910 --> 00:10:45.450 and having this, you know, 00:10:45.450 --> 00:10:47.520 pooling kind of like three studies 00:10:47.520 --> 00:10:48.960 or three applications into one, 00:10:48.960 --> 00:10:50.410 doing kind of like a tri-study. 00:10:50.410 --> 00:10:53.010 So I think some great examples here 00:10:53.010 --> 00:10:54.530 of projects moving forward, 00:10:54.530 --> 00:10:56.770 utilizing the category one funding. 00:10:56.770 --> 00:10:58.140 And of course, Raymondville, 00:10:58.140 --> 00:11:00.090 we know the tremendous need down there, 00:11:00.090 --> 00:11:02.340 so be able to have them to participate, 00:11:02.340 --> 00:11:04.610 and of course, Eastland and Gatesville. 00:11:04.610 --> 00:11:06.850 I mean just a really, really good package here. 00:11:06.850 --> 00:11:10.163 So thanks so much for working on this. 00:11:11.710 --> 00:11:14.170 And Ms. Jackson, great comments as usual. 00:11:14.170 --> 00:11:16.695 I love your remark about the COGs. 00:11:16.695 --> 00:11:19.990 I think it's so important to show that, 00:11:19.990 --> 00:11:23.283 when stakeholders talk to us, we listen. 00:11:24.210 --> 00:11:27.100 We are a very stakeholder-driven agency 00:11:27.100 --> 00:11:30.239 and we love to communicate and collaborate 00:11:30.239 --> 00:11:33.023 with all of our partners in this great state. 00:11:33.860 --> 00:11:35.700 I'd love to give a special shout out to all 00:11:35.700 --> 00:11:39.160 the people who made the Nueces County project happen. 00:11:39.160 --> 00:11:42.072 I know it took a lot to get it to the finish line. 00:11:42.072 --> 00:11:43.860 Great job, James. 00:11:43.860 --> 00:11:46.620 We've got five great applicants, five great projects. 00:11:46.620 --> 00:11:48.420 This is where it all begins, 00:11:48.420 --> 00:11:51.300 planning on the basis of the entire watershed. 00:11:51.300 --> 00:11:52.870 So fantastic job. 00:11:52.870 --> 00:11:56.558 I'm not sure our speakers are here yet, 00:11:56.558 --> 00:11:59.930 so we can move any of their public remarks 00:11:59.930 --> 00:12:02.913 to the end and continue on with our items. 00:12:05.273 --> 00:12:07.490 (speaking faintly) 00:12:07.490 --> 00:12:10.440 Any other questions or comments, Ms. Jackson? 00:12:10.440 --> 00:12:11.419 Good. 00:12:11.419 --> 00:12:14.410 I move we approve the selected applications 00:12:14.410 --> 00:12:17.330 and authorize the Executive Administrator to negotiate 00:12:17.330 --> 00:12:19.490 and execute contracts for grant funding 00:12:19.490 --> 00:12:22.407 from the 2020 flood infrastructure fund cycle amount, 00:12:22.407 --> 00:12:27.407 not to exceed $6,167,500 00:12:28.160 --> 00:12:30.990 for watershed flood protection planning projects, 00:12:30.990 --> 00:12:35.990 and to authorize the transfer of $6,167,500 00:12:36.320 --> 00:12:38.590 from the flood infrastructure fund to the research 00:12:38.590 --> 00:12:40.580 and planning fund as recommended 00:12:40.580 --> 00:12:42.770 by our Executive Administrator. 00:12:42.770 --> 00:12:44.796 All those in favor, say aye. 00:12:44.796 --> 00:12:45.693 Aye. 00:12:45.693 --> 00:12:47.340 The motion passes. 00:12:47.340 --> 00:12:49.023 Next item please. Mr. Harden. 00:12:50.750 --> 00:12:54.940 The next item on the agenda is approved by resolution, 00:12:54.940 --> 00:12:58.127 a request from the city of Palm Valley for $1,417,922 00:13:01.010 --> 00:13:04.677 in financial assistance, consisting of $1,347,000 00:13:06.050 --> 00:13:10.683 in financing and $70,922 in grant 00:13:10.683 --> 00:13:13.710 from the flood infrastructure funds for planning, design, 00:13:13.710 --> 00:13:16.830 and construction of the flood management project. 00:13:16.830 --> 00:13:19.670 And we have Mireya Loewe here to present to the board 00:13:19.670 --> 00:13:20.713 on this item today. 00:13:21.780 --> 00:13:23.910 Good morning. 00:13:23.910 --> 00:13:25.690 Chairwoman Paup, Director Jackson, 00:13:25.690 --> 00:13:26.840 my name is Mireya Loewe 00:13:28.226 --> 00:13:29.610 of the Executive Administrator staff. 00:13:29.610 --> 00:13:32.100 The city of Palm Valley is in Cameron County, 00:13:32.100 --> 00:13:33.133 west of Harlingen. 00:13:34.080 --> 00:13:36.970 The city is nearly fully developed and has a population 00:13:36.970 --> 00:13:38.863 of approximately 1,700. 00:13:39.990 --> 00:13:41.960 Stormwater within the city is managed 00:13:41.960 --> 00:13:44.840 via street runoff, a closed storm system, 00:13:44.840 --> 00:13:46.140 the golf course ditch, 00:13:46.140 --> 00:13:48.010 and the Cameron County drainage district 00:13:48.010 --> 00:13:50.573 number five drainage ditch. 00:13:51.750 --> 00:13:54.893 Stormwater then flows east to the north main drain. 00:13:55.900 --> 00:13:58.260 The city has experienced several flooding events, 00:13:58.260 --> 00:14:02.930 including the June, 2019 300-year storm event that received 00:14:02.930 --> 00:14:05.450 a federal disaster declaration and damaged 00:14:05.450 --> 00:14:08.120 approximately 600 houses. 00:14:08.120 --> 00:14:10.400 To prevent further flood damage, 00:14:10.400 --> 00:14:12.520 in 2019, the city completed 00:14:12.520 --> 00:14:14.960 a flood reduction preliminary analysis 00:14:14.960 --> 00:14:18.220 which identified insufficient drainage areas 00:14:18.220 --> 00:14:20.480 and five drainage projects. 00:14:20.480 --> 00:14:22.680 The first two projects have been completed. 00:14:22.680 --> 00:14:27.250 The third and the fourth are scheduled for 2022 and 2023. 00:14:27.250 --> 00:14:30.653 The fifth project is a currently proposed fifth project. 00:14:31.930 --> 00:14:35.070 Based on the 2019 modeling, the golf course ditch 00:14:35.070 --> 00:14:38.120 was identified as having a capacity to handle less 00:14:38.120 --> 00:14:41.190 than a two year recurring storm event. 00:14:41.190 --> 00:14:43.280 The proposed project will improve drainage 00:14:43.280 --> 00:14:47.450 in the golf course ditch by replacing 2,850 linear feet 00:14:48.770 --> 00:14:52.290 of the existing infrastructure with a concrete-lined channel 00:14:52.290 --> 00:14:54.969 and replacing another 220 linear feet 00:14:54.969 --> 00:14:58.906 with two 6X6 feet box culverts. 00:14:58.906 --> 00:15:01.140 The proposed improvements will reduce 00:15:01.140 --> 00:15:03.160 the water surface level within the city 00:15:03.160 --> 00:15:07.410 by approximately five inches based on a 100 year event 00:15:07.410 --> 00:15:11.313 and is estimated to reduce damage to 438 structures. 00:15:12.720 --> 00:15:15.660 The city qualified for us $70,922 new grant 00:15:15.660 --> 00:15:17.670 under the fifth equal to 5% 00:15:17.670 --> 00:15:22.471 of the total project cost of $1,417,922. 00:15:22.471 --> 00:15:26.463 The remaining 95% will be funded through fifth financing. 00:15:27.560 --> 00:15:29.930 The Executive Administrator recommends approval 00:15:29.930 --> 00:15:31.700 of this funding request. 00:15:31.700 --> 00:15:33.340 And this concludes my presentation. 00:15:33.340 --> 00:15:34.883 May I answer any questions? 00:15:36.820 --> 00:15:39.390 Thanks, Mireya, questions or comments? 00:15:39.390 --> 00:15:40.820 Just a great project again. 00:15:40.820 --> 00:15:43.390 Good to see projects moving forward in the valley, 00:15:43.390 --> 00:15:45.430 and the fact that, you know, they had done the study 00:15:45.430 --> 00:15:47.940 in 2019 and I think you shared with us some 00:15:47.940 --> 00:15:51.230 of the outcomes of the modeling and, you know, 00:15:51.230 --> 00:15:52.930 very interesting to me that they're able 00:15:52.930 --> 00:15:55.998 to actually quantify the benefit, not just in terms of, 00:15:55.998 --> 00:15:58.760 you know, structures that would be out in the floodplain, 00:15:58.760 --> 00:16:01.277 but also that five inches that you (speaking faintly). 00:16:02.270 --> 00:16:05.210 I think, you know, your point whenever we talk 00:16:05.210 --> 00:16:07.860 about these type of infrastructure projects 00:16:07.860 --> 00:16:10.530 is that everything kind of flows to the main ditch 00:16:10.530 --> 00:16:11.980 and then out to the Laguna Madre. 00:16:11.980 --> 00:16:14.746 So to the extent that we can do things, you know, 00:16:14.746 --> 00:16:19.746 like the concrete culverts and, you know, 00:16:20.020 --> 00:16:23.090 the open channels, I mean, the better able that we're able 00:16:23.090 --> 00:16:25.084 to build to manage stormwaters. 00:16:25.084 --> 00:16:29.252 I mean, not just for the 100 year storm events, 00:16:29.252 --> 00:16:32.242 but also for flooding that occurs oftentimes through, 00:16:32.242 --> 00:16:36.440 you know, very light rain events. 00:16:36.440 --> 00:16:39.530 So it's good to say we're moving forward with this project. 00:16:39.530 --> 00:16:43.324 Appreciate it and the work of the staff, and again, 00:16:43.324 --> 00:16:48.324 seeing the planning turning into projects through the fifth. 00:16:48.359 --> 00:16:50.107 So thank you. 00:16:51.750 --> 00:16:52.583 Well said. 00:16:52.583 --> 00:16:54.140 I love seeing the direct benefit 00:16:54.140 --> 00:16:58.141 of the 300 structures removed from the flood plain, 00:16:58.141 --> 00:16:59.840 which is really fantastic. 00:16:59.840 --> 00:17:03.107 This area has dealt with just repetitive flooding 00:17:03.107 --> 00:17:08.107 and every fifth project we fund saves property and lives. 00:17:09.490 --> 00:17:11.770 So it's just fantastic. 00:17:11.770 --> 00:17:13.190 So thank you, Mireya. 00:17:13.190 --> 00:17:14.113 Is there a motion? 00:17:15.060 --> 00:17:17.060 I move we adopt the proposed resolution 00:17:17.060 --> 00:17:20.077 from the city of Palm Valley for $1,417,922 00:17:22.593 --> 00:17:27.593 in financial assistance, consisting of $1,347,000 00:17:27.810 --> 00:17:32.210 in financing and $70,922 in grant 00:17:32.210 --> 00:17:34.810 from the flood infrastructure fund for planning, 00:17:34.810 --> 00:17:37.690 design, and construction of a flood management project 00:17:37.690 --> 00:17:40.023 as recommended by our Executive Administrator. 00:17:41.040 --> 00:17:42.795 All those in favor, say aye. 00:17:42.795 --> 00:17:44.058 Aye. 00:17:44.058 --> 00:17:45.900 Motion passes. 00:17:45.900 --> 00:17:47.203 Thank you, Mireya. 00:17:48.910 --> 00:17:50.863 Next item please. 00:17:50.863 --> 00:17:53.300 Chairwoman Paup, the next item on the agenda 00:17:53.300 --> 00:17:56.550 is approved by resolution, a request from the city 00:17:56.550 --> 00:18:00.800 of Weslaco amending TWDB resolution 20-098 00:18:00.800 --> 00:18:05.330 to extend the commitment period, change the financial side, 00:18:05.330 --> 00:18:08.650 and authorize the purchase of bonds (speaking faintly) 00:18:08.650 --> 00:18:12.110 and for $3,040,000 in financial assistance, 00:18:12.110 --> 00:18:15.618 consisting of $2,280,000 in financing 00:18:15.618 --> 00:18:20.250 and $760,000 in grant from the flood infrastructure fund 00:18:20.250 --> 00:18:23.982 for planning, design, and construction of (speaking faintly) 00:18:23.982 --> 00:18:27.070 And Mireya Loewe is here to present for their board 00:18:27.070 --> 00:18:28.843 on this item as well. 00:18:29.957 --> 00:18:31.850 For the record, my name is Mireya Loewe 00:18:31.850 --> 00:18:34.210 of the executive administrative staff. 00:18:34.210 --> 00:18:37.130 The city of weslaco is located in Hidalgo County 00:18:37.130 --> 00:18:40.690 and has a population of approximately 42,000. 00:18:40.690 --> 00:18:42.550 The city received a commitment from 00:18:42.550 --> 00:18:45.420 the flood infrastructure fund for a category three project 00:18:45.420 --> 00:18:50.247 in December of 2020, consisting of $1,951,708 in grant 00:18:53.630 --> 00:18:57.090 and $1,051,000 in financing, 00:18:57.090 --> 00:19:01.083 with a commitment expiration of June 30th, 2021. 00:19:02.260 --> 00:19:05.400 If the proposed category two project is approved, 00:19:05.400 --> 00:19:08.840 the city wishes to close the financing on both projects 00:19:08.840 --> 00:19:12.300 as a single bond series to minimize issuance costs 00:19:12.300 --> 00:19:15.840 and maximize funds for project-related costs. 00:19:15.840 --> 00:19:17.860 Therefore the city is requesting approval 00:19:17.860 --> 00:19:20.260 of two components today. 00:19:20.260 --> 00:19:24.329 The first is to amend resolution 20-098 00:19:24.329 --> 00:19:27.840 for the approved category three project to, 00:19:27.840 --> 00:19:30.870 one, extend the commitment from June 30th 00:19:30.870 --> 00:19:33.250 to November 30th, 2021, 00:19:33.250 --> 00:19:35.210 to sync the commitment expiration date 00:19:35.210 --> 00:19:38.398 with those of the proposed category two project. 00:19:38.398 --> 00:19:41.540 Two, to authorize the purchase of bonds 00:19:41.540 --> 00:19:43.530 in one or more series, 00:19:43.530 --> 00:19:46.270 and three, to amend the repayment pledge 00:19:46.270 --> 00:19:49.550 to ad valorem taxes and a subordinate lien 00:19:49.550 --> 00:19:51.950 on the net revenues of the city's waterworks 00:19:51.950 --> 00:19:54.880 and sewer system so that the pledge matches 00:19:54.880 --> 00:19:56.640 with the city's other outstanding 00:19:56.640 --> 00:19:58.263 and similarly secured debt. 00:19:59.210 --> 00:20:00.930 Our financial analysis indicates 00:20:00.930 --> 00:20:02.710 that this change in pledge does not affect 00:20:02.710 --> 00:20:06.303 the city's repayment ability nor our internal risk score. 00:20:07.750 --> 00:20:09.900 The second request is for funding 00:20:09.900 --> 00:20:12.173 of a category two drainage project. 00:20:13.180 --> 00:20:15.210 The city has experienced repetitive flooding 00:20:15.210 --> 00:20:18.540 with approximately 510 residential homes located 00:20:18.540 --> 00:20:20.980 within the 50 year floodplain. 00:20:20.980 --> 00:20:22.720 Furthermore, the existing underside 00:20:22.720 --> 00:20:25.240 storm drainage infrastructure and system 00:20:25.240 --> 00:20:27.680 do not provide protection to residents 00:20:27.680 --> 00:20:28.903 in the flood-prone area. 00:20:30.170 --> 00:20:33.053 The proposed project is based on the findings and estimates 00:20:33.053 --> 00:20:36.657 of the city's stormwater improvements plan adopted 00:20:36.657 --> 00:20:39.173 on April of 2019. 00:20:40.750 --> 00:20:42.890 The proposed project includes construction 00:20:43.736 --> 00:20:45.510 of an 11-acre stormwater detention pond 00:20:45.510 --> 00:20:47.019 on property currently owned 00:20:47.019 --> 00:20:50.190 by the Weslaco Independent School District. 00:20:50.190 --> 00:20:52.500 The detention pond will be constructed 00:20:52.500 --> 00:20:55.400 with a level bottom to allow for the possibly installation 00:20:55.400 --> 00:20:59.510 of future soccer fields and other recreational spaces. 00:20:59.510 --> 00:21:02.777 Both the weslaco ISD and the city will maintain and provide 00:21:02.777 --> 00:21:06.770 the uptake of the proposed storm water detention pond. 00:21:06.770 --> 00:21:09.000 The proposed project will remove approximately 00:21:09.000 --> 00:21:12.050 209 houses from the 10 year flood plain 00:21:12.050 --> 00:21:14.510 and provide storm drainage relief to approximately 00:21:14.510 --> 00:21:18.243 745 people in the Northwest section of the city. 00:21:19.280 --> 00:21:23.464 The city qualified for a grant equal to 25% 00:21:23.464 --> 00:21:27.419 of the total project cost of $3,040,000. 00:21:27.419 --> 00:21:31.515 The remaining 75% will consist of fifth financing. 00:21:31.515 --> 00:21:35.030 The Executive Administrator recommends approval 00:21:35.030 --> 00:21:36.850 of the two requests. 00:21:36.850 --> 00:21:38.250 This concludes my presentation. 00:21:38.250 --> 00:21:39.663 May I ask for any questions? 00:21:41.280 --> 00:21:42.480 Questions or comments. 00:21:43.720 --> 00:21:46.324 All the right elements are in place on this one. 00:21:46.324 --> 00:21:50.614 I think, great work on being able to sync the two requests. 00:21:50.614 --> 00:21:54.636 Obviously, category three, utilizing, you know, 00:21:54.636 --> 00:21:58.770 outside funding sources, and then the board providing, 00:21:58.770 --> 00:22:01.710 you know, through the fifth funds to be able 00:22:01.710 --> 00:22:03.820 to move forward and complete that project. 00:22:03.820 --> 00:22:06.340 And then also the category two, 00:22:06.340 --> 00:22:09.930 the detention pond, which also can have other uses, 00:22:09.930 --> 00:22:12.480 and this has been done and successfully done in other parts 00:22:12.480 --> 00:22:15.258 of the state for a soccer field. 00:22:15.258 --> 00:22:18.419 And then, you know, just to point out 00:22:18.419 --> 00:22:20.580 the investment by the community. 00:22:20.580 --> 00:22:23.460 I mean, they're utilizing the fifth, and yes, 00:22:23.460 --> 00:22:25.780 the state is investing and getting benefit from it. 00:22:25.780 --> 00:22:29.730 But the community is making a sizeable investment 00:22:29.730 --> 00:22:31.930 and committing funds of their own to kind of move 00:22:31.930 --> 00:22:33.643 this project forward. 00:22:33.643 --> 00:22:36.624 So I think a perfect example of how the fifth 00:22:36.624 --> 00:22:39.851 is incentivizing communities to take projects 00:22:39.851 --> 00:22:41.910 and be able to move them forward, 00:22:41.910 --> 00:22:44.900 utilizing the federal funds through category three, 00:22:44.900 --> 00:22:48.834 and then also incentivizing to kind of move forward 00:22:48.834 --> 00:22:53.173 with a project that provides the typical detention 00:22:53.173 --> 00:22:57.020 and storm drainage and benefits homes and residences. 00:22:57.020 --> 00:22:58.780 So a great project. 00:22:58.780 --> 00:23:01.530 Appreciate you working on this. and just again, 00:23:01.530 --> 00:23:03.693 great to see these projects moving forward. 00:23:05.910 --> 00:23:08.867 And Mireya, this is a project that really warms my heart. 00:23:08.867 --> 00:23:11.670 The fact that we are providing 00:23:11.670 --> 00:23:15.493 such wonderful customer service to Weslaco is fantastic, 00:23:15.493 --> 00:23:18.520 and the fact that one of our projects is going 00:23:18.520 --> 00:23:20.830 to provide an area for children to play soccer 00:23:20.830 --> 00:23:22.848 is just wonderful. 00:23:22.848 --> 00:23:27.747 As a mom, that just is a fantastic part of this project. 00:23:27.747 --> 00:23:30.150 So I very much appreciate it. 00:23:30.150 --> 00:23:31.370 Great job. 00:23:31.370 --> 00:23:33.010 Thank you. 00:23:33.010 --> 00:23:35.210 I move we adopt the proposed resolution 00:23:35.210 --> 00:23:40.140 for the city of Weslaco, amending TWDB resolution 20-098 00:23:40.140 --> 00:23:41.950 to extend the commitment period, 00:23:41.950 --> 00:23:43.350 change the financing pledge, 00:23:43.350 --> 00:23:46.560 and authorize the purchase of bonds in one or more series, 00:23:46.560 --> 00:23:50.486 and for $3,040,000 in financial assistance, 00:23:50.486 --> 00:23:54.605 consisting of $2,280,000 in financing 00:23:54.605 --> 00:23:59.020 and $760,000 in grant from the flood infrastructure fund 00:23:59.020 --> 00:24:00.530 for planning, design, and construction 00:24:00.530 --> 00:24:02.790 of a detention pond project as recommended 00:24:02.790 --> 00:24:05.420 by our Executive Administrator. 00:24:05.420 --> 00:24:07.016 All those in favor, say aye. 00:24:07.016 --> 00:24:08.090 Aye. 00:24:08.090 --> 00:24:10.053 The motion passes. 00:24:11.490 --> 00:24:12.760 Next item, please. 00:24:13.840 --> 00:24:17.173 Chairwoman, the next item on the agenda is public comment. 00:24:18.740 --> 00:24:23.490 I believe we have Ms. Roth and Judge Canales with us 00:24:23.490 --> 00:24:25.073 to speak on item two. 00:24:27.680 --> 00:24:29.280 Yes, good morning. 00:24:29.280 --> 00:24:30.990 Thank you for the indulgence of being late. 00:24:30.990 --> 00:24:32.770 We were having some technology issues, 00:24:32.770 --> 00:24:34.380 so I think you all will appreciate this 00:24:34.380 --> 00:24:36.580 with the big storm that moved through here, 00:24:36.580 --> 00:24:38.740 a big bolt of lightning struck and we lost 00:24:38.740 --> 00:24:40.197 our internet here. 00:24:40.197 --> 00:24:42.452 But to the magic of hotspots, good morning, 00:24:42.452 --> 00:24:47.452 and thank you for really giving me a brief moment to express 00:24:47.691 --> 00:24:52.691 my thanks to Jeff Walker and to the entire staff 00:24:52.900 --> 00:24:57.530 for what was really, what began as a challenging project 00:24:57.530 --> 00:25:00.650 and turned out to be one of our proudest moments, 00:25:00.650 --> 00:25:04.469 and that was the application that Nueces brings to you today 00:25:04.469 --> 00:25:08.843 with gratitude and thanks on behalf of a tri-county effort. 00:25:08.843 --> 00:25:11.930 What you're seeing here today is historical. 00:25:11.930 --> 00:25:14.410 I don't have to tell you how hard it is to get everybody 00:25:14.410 --> 00:25:16.520 in your own county to get together, 00:25:16.520 --> 00:25:19.730 but when you can hold hands in three counties 00:25:19.730 --> 00:25:23.250 and multiple cities inside to do 00:25:23.250 --> 00:25:26.034 a historical master drainage study, 00:25:26.034 --> 00:25:29.099 this is what the win-win looks like. 00:25:29.099 --> 00:25:33.324 And, you know, I don't know if this was just God's way, 00:25:33.324 --> 00:25:36.520 but you know, we received eight inches yesterday. 00:25:36.520 --> 00:25:38.170 While I was in Commission of court, 00:25:38.170 --> 00:25:41.500 we were evacuating people, we were creating shelters, 00:25:41.500 --> 00:25:43.600 and we were still conducting court. 00:25:43.600 --> 00:25:46.010 This morning, while the water has receded, 00:25:46.010 --> 00:25:48.622 I don't mind sharing with you the impact 00:25:48.622 --> 00:25:52.070 that these dollars will have in our community. 00:25:52.070 --> 00:25:53.960 People are truly suffering, 00:25:53.960 --> 00:25:56.244 not just for years, for generations. 00:25:56.244 --> 00:25:59.640 This is the first glimmer of hope. 00:25:59.640 --> 00:26:02.090 I cannot begin to thank you enough 00:26:02.090 --> 00:26:06.060 for letting me stand up today and letting those people know 00:26:06.060 --> 00:26:07.890 that help is on its way. 00:26:07.890 --> 00:26:10.260 We really needed these funds. 00:26:10.260 --> 00:26:12.500 We needed your patience and indulgence 00:26:12.500 --> 00:26:14.960 to get our team together. 00:26:14.960 --> 00:26:19.000 So on behalf of Jim Wells, Kleburg, Nueces, 00:26:19.000 --> 00:26:21.970 drainage district number two, and the city of Driscoll, 00:26:21.970 --> 00:26:26.720 those last two have AMHIs of under $35,000 a year. 00:26:26.720 --> 00:26:28.513 We've done something very special 00:26:28.513 --> 00:26:32.230 . And again, my grateful heart on behalf of all 00:26:32.230 --> 00:26:35.743 of our citizens for voting yes for agenda item number two. 00:26:38.239 --> 00:26:40.900 Thank you so much for those kind words. 00:26:40.900 --> 00:26:44.290 I thought this would be a board meeting where I didn't cry. 00:26:44.290 --> 00:26:46.383 It's just not happening. 00:26:47.600 --> 00:26:50.240 We're just, of those kind words, 00:26:50.240 --> 00:26:52.190 and it was a huge effort on staff's part, 00:26:52.190 --> 00:26:55.100 and we appreciate your work on it as well. 00:26:55.100 --> 00:26:56.690 Thank you, thank you so much, 00:26:56.690 --> 00:27:00.000 and we will certainly share the fruits of our labor 00:27:00.000 --> 00:27:02.663 when our study is done and our projects begin. 00:27:04.480 --> 00:27:05.381 Thank you. 00:27:05.381 --> 00:27:07.210 Judge Canales, I want to Thank you for your leadership, 00:27:07.210 --> 00:27:09.880 because you know, we can have the money 00:27:09.880 --> 00:27:11.940 and we can have the technology, 00:27:11.940 --> 00:27:13.010 but it's up to the local leaders to take the bull 00:27:13.010 --> 00:27:14.700 by the horns and move the project forward. 00:27:14.700 --> 00:27:17.426 And this was certainly the case, 00:27:17.426 --> 00:27:22.370 and you're also making an investment in this project of, 00:27:22.370 --> 00:27:24.710 you know, your own financial dollars. 00:27:24.710 --> 00:27:28.630 So it's great to hear, and we look forward to the outcome 00:27:28.630 --> 00:27:32.520 of the study and the projects that will come out of it 00:27:32.520 --> 00:27:35.000 that hopefully we can work together and move forward. 00:27:35.000 --> 00:27:37.970 So thanks again for your leadership and the others 00:27:37.970 --> 00:27:39.890 in the community that brought together 00:27:39.890 --> 00:27:41.830 this three-county effort. 00:27:41.830 --> 00:27:43.880 Thank you, thank you so much. 00:27:48.136 --> 00:27:50.450 we have any other public testimony? 00:27:54.702 --> 00:27:57.452 Hi, this is Susan VAHN. 00:27:58.402 --> 00:27:59.402 Hi, Susan. 00:28:02.800 --> 00:28:03.950 Hi, you guys. 00:28:03.950 --> 00:28:06.860 I just need to find out from Judge Canales, 00:28:06.860 --> 00:28:09.240 (speaking faintly) 00:28:09.240 --> 00:28:11.660 the tri-county effort for the project, 00:28:11.660 --> 00:28:14.595 and I'm just, I appreciate the opportunity 00:28:14.595 --> 00:28:17.512 (speaking faintly) 00:28:19.011 --> 00:28:21.670 And I also want to give a shoutout of appreciation 00:28:21.670 --> 00:28:26.220 to Jeff LEY-HOOM, but also want (speaking faintly), 00:28:29.239 --> 00:28:32.561 Mark WAHL-EHT, and Tom EHN-SEHL-MAHN, (speaking faintly), 00:28:32.561 --> 00:28:36.363 just let them know ow much we really appreciate 00:28:36.363 --> 00:28:37.946 all their hard work 00:28:38.804 --> 00:28:42.870 and just (speaking faintly) as they continue 00:28:42.870 --> 00:28:46.070 to give such excellent customer service 00:28:46.070 --> 00:28:48.418 and they're always so helpful. 00:28:48.418 --> 00:28:51.060 So a shoutout to them. 00:28:51.060 --> 00:28:51.893 Thank you. 00:28:53.900 --> 00:28:54.740 Thanks Susan. 00:28:54.740 --> 00:28:57.390 I agree with you, we have exceptional employees 00:28:57.390 --> 00:28:59.100 at the Water Development Board 00:28:59.100 --> 00:29:01.220 who really go above and beyond to help all 00:29:01.220 --> 00:29:04.570 of our applicants and projects, 00:29:04.570 --> 00:29:06.380 and they've done a fantastic job with this. 00:29:06.380 --> 00:29:09.483 So thank you for those kind words as well. 00:29:10.960 --> 00:29:12.343 Anything, Ms. Jackson? 00:29:13.270 --> 00:29:16.240 Just again, appreciate Susan's engagement, and of course, 00:29:16.240 --> 00:29:20.660 since she's past president of the Texas section 00:29:20.660 --> 00:29:22.730 of the American Society of Civil Engineers, 00:29:22.730 --> 00:29:27.730 and I see was very engaged throughout the process of helping 00:29:28.298 --> 00:29:32.760 to provide comments in putting together the fifth, 00:29:32.760 --> 00:29:36.701 and moving forward, continue to hear their thoughts 00:29:36.701 --> 00:29:40.580 and ideas which I think has been so important 00:29:40.580 --> 00:29:44.480 in kind of getting the structure together that enables us 00:29:44.480 --> 00:29:46.510 to move forward and meet the needs 00:29:46.510 --> 00:29:48.080 of communities across the state. 00:29:48.080 --> 00:29:51.490 So just wanna recognize since, you know, 00:29:51.490 --> 00:29:55.799 Susan is onboard and part of the discussion here, 00:29:55.799 --> 00:29:59.870 the tremendous input that we received, again, 00:29:59.870 --> 00:30:02.890 across the state from a technical standpoint 00:30:02.890 --> 00:30:04.040 that are really, I think, 00:30:04.040 --> 00:30:05.890 making a big difference in being able to move 00:30:05.890 --> 00:30:06.900 these projects forward. 00:30:06.900 --> 00:30:08.093 So thanks, Susan. 00:30:09.517 --> 00:30:11.590 Thanks so much, Director Jackson. 00:30:11.590 --> 00:30:13.340 Always appreciate it. 00:30:14.514 --> 00:30:15.610 Thank you. 00:30:15.610 --> 00:30:20.610 Is there anyone else who wish to provide public comment? 00:30:21.260 --> 00:30:22.610 Now's your chance to do so? 00:30:24.690 --> 00:30:27.023 I don't see anyone at this time. 00:30:27.950 --> 00:30:29.963 Give it a minute. 00:30:34.884 --> 00:30:39.717 I really need to start bringing tissues to board meetings. 00:30:42.410 --> 00:30:44.950 All right, I think we're good. 00:30:51.200 --> 00:30:54.800 The board will not meet and close session today. 00:30:54.800 --> 00:30:57.300 This board meeting at the Texas Water Development Board 00:30:57.300 --> 00:30:58.200 is adjourned. 00:30:58.200 --> 00:31:01.830 The time is 10:02 AM. 00:31:01.830 --> 00:31:03.630 Thank y'all, great meeting. 00:31:03.630 --> 00:31:04.523 Great meeting.